How to Properly Install Fog Lights

When driving in rainy or foggy conditions, a vehicle's headlights often do not provide enough light. Because of this, manufacturers have developed fog lights. Fog lights can be included in a vehicle as part of its factory options or can be added by vehicle owners as an aftermarket accessory. Generally, fog light brackets should conform to a vehicle's dimensions, so buyers should choose fog light models that are compatible with their vehicles. Fog lights can be purchased at local automotive supply shops, but choices can be limited. Alternatively, buyers who want a wide selection of fog light options can shop online at websites like eBay. Before shopping, however, buyers should know the styles of fog lights that are available and the proper installation process.

Fog Light Mount Styles

Because fog lights contain mounting and electrical parts, installing the lights takes some skill. This first step in preparing for a successful fog light installation project is identifying the mounting styles that are available for buyers.

Types of Fog Light Styles

Description

Bumper-mounted

Positioned on the bottom side of a vehicle's bumper

Can be included as part of a vehicle's factory options or added after a vehicle is purchased

Grill-mounted

Large, canister-type lights that are positioned in front or behind a vehicle's grill

Typically attached to a replacement grill when sold as an aftermarket accessory

Generally seen on larger vehicles like trucks

Rack-mounted

Can be large, round lights or a series of lights within a casing that are attached to a rack

Usually not part of a vehicle's factory options

Typically added to the roof of vehicles

Mounting styles for fog lights affect the first stages of the installation process because each type of mounting requires special care. Once a fog light is mounted, however, the general wiring process is the same for most types of fog lights.

Installing Fog Light Models

Before installing a fog light model, buyers should carefully read any instructions that are included within the light's packaging. This ensures that buyers take the correct steps when adding their fog lights to their vehicles.

Bumper-Mounted Fog Lights

Bumper-mounted fog lights are most frequently added to a vehicle before a vehicle leaves its factory. Buyers can purchase body kits, however, that include bumpers outfitted with fog lights. The fog lights are either positioned directly on the bumper or are placed on a bumper lip spoiler that extends down underneath the bumper. Buyers must take the original bumpers off of their cars using hand tools before they can add the new bumper. Because body kit bumpers are compatible with a vehicle, buyers can simply add the new bumper to their vehicles, back-tracing their steps from the removal process. The bumper-mounted fog lights then need to be wired.

Grill-Mounted Fog Lights

Like bumper-mounted fog lights, it is important that buyers purchase compatible grill-mounted fog lights for their vehicles. Having a compatible grill mount makes installing this type of fog light easier. Buyers begin by removing the original grill from their vehicles and add the new grill mount by bolting it into the same positioning as the original grill. Once the grill is attached, the fog lights can be connected to their power source.

Rack-Mounted Fog Lights

Unlike both bumper and grill-mounted fog lights, purchasing vehicle compatible rack-mounted fog lights is not a critical issue. Buyers must purchase rack-mounted fog lights that can fit the general size dimensions of the roofs of their vehicles, however. Since some models of rack-mounted fog lights require assembly, buyers should prepare the lights according to the manufacturer's instructions. Next, buyers should centre the rack on the roof of their vehicles to mark where they should drill the holes for mounting. Once the holes are drilled, the rack should be attached to the roof, ready for wiring.

Wiring Fog Lights

To wire fog lights, buyers need a number of electrical components that may be part of a fog light purchase. These components include an automotive relay, power switch, and fuses. The automotive relay should have four male spade connectors, while the power switch requires three male spade connectors. The amps of the fuses depend on the power requirements of the fog lights and the number of fog lights that are being installed. Additionally, each fog light generally needs its own fuse, so if a fog light setup includes two lamps, two fuses should be purchased. The fuses and relay switch need to be mounted under the bonnet of the vehicle close to the battery before they can be connected to the fog lights. To complete the wiring, buyers also need a number of wires and electrical connectors. Because wiring fog lights may change from model to model, buyers should carefully follow the installation instructions recommended by a fog light manufacturer.

Aiming Fog Lights

Once fog lights are wired and tested to make sure they are operational, buyers frequently need to adjust the light's aim. Typically, bumper-mounted fog lights should be set level, but grill- and rack-mounted fog lights may need to be adjusted downward slightly to provide the best visibility. Additionally, rack-mounted fog lights, which may contain four or more individual lights, can be aimed so the outer lights are turned slightly to the side. Setting the lights in this manner provides drivers with a wide light pattern so they can see the sides of a road easily.

Legal Issues Concerning Fog Lights

Before committing to a fog light installation, buyers should research their local laws to see if there are any regulations concerning fog lights within their areas. In some locations, the use of any fog lights is prohibited on public roads. Other areas, however, prohibit the operation of grill- or rack-mounted fog lights but allow drivers to utilise bumper-mounted fog lights in severe weather conditions. Since a fog light installation can be time-consuming and expensive, buyers should know beforehand if they can operate their fog lights once they are installed. Some buyers may opt to install the fog lights regardless of local laws if they appreciate the look of fog lights or plan to use them on private land.

Buying Fog Lights on eBay

Buyers interested in purchasing fog lights and the products that they need to ensure proper installation can visit eBay to find a wide selection of purchasing options. To locate fog lights quickly, buyers can apply a keyword search related to the specific models that they seek. For example, typing "Narva Ultima 225 fog light" into eBay's search field results in a selected list of fog light models that match those keywords. Buyers can find new and used fog lights on eBay or opt to check out the choices available in eBay Deals' Automotive category. If buyers are purchasing bumper- or grill-mounted fog lights, they should read the information included in an eBay listing to make sure that the fog lights are compatible with their vehicles.

Conclusion

Fog lights provide drivers with extra light when they are travelling through poor weather conditions. Although some types of fog lights can be included on a vehicle as part of its manufacturer-offered features, buyers often need to add aftermarket fog light models to their vehicles. To get the most benefit from their purchases, the fog lights must be installed properly. Correct installation depends on the mounting method of the fog lights and following a manufacturer's instructions for wiring the fog lights to a vehicle's battery. Once the fog lights are operational, buyers must establish the correct light pattern by aiming the lights in various ways. After buyers have evaluated whether it is beneficial to purchase fog lights, they can shop on eBay to access a wide variety of fog light models and related products.